Control system for a dual clutch transmission

ABSTRACT

A hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission includes a plurality of pressure and flow control devices in fluid communication with a plurality of clutch actuators and with a plurality of synchronizer actuators. The clutch actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of torque transmitting devices and the synchronizer actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of synchronizer assemblies. Selective activation of combinations of the pressure control solenoids and the flow control solenoids allows for a pressurized fluid to activate at least one of the clutch actuators and synchronizer actuators in order to shift the transmission into a desired gear ratio.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/266,450 filed on Dec. 3, 2009, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a control system for a dual clutch transmission, and more particularly to an electro-hydraulic control system having a plurality of solenoids operable to actuate a plurality of actuators within the dual clutch transmission.

BACKGROUND

A typical multi-speed, dual clutch transmission uses a combination of two friction clutches and several dog clutch/synchronizers to achieve “power-on” or dynamic shifts by alternating between one friction clutch and the other, with the synchronizers being “pre-selected” for the oncoming ratio prior to actually making the dynamic shift. “Power-on” shifting means that torque flow from the engine need not be interrupted prior to making the shift. This concept typically uses countershaft gears with a different, dedicated gear pair or set to achieve each forward speed ratio. Typically an electronically controlled hydraulic control circuit or system is employed to control solenoids and valve assemblies. The solenoid and valve assemblies actuate clutches and synchronizers to achieve the forward and reverse gear ratios.

While previous hydraulic control systems are useful for their intended purpose, the need for new and improved hydraulic control system configurations within transmissions which exhibit improved performance, especially from the standpoints of efficiency, responsiveness and smoothness, is essentially constant. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved, cost-effective hydraulic control system for use in a dual clutch transmission.

SUMMARY

A hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission includes a plurality of pressure and flow control devices in fluid communication with a plurality of clutch actuators and with a plurality of synchronizer actuators. The clutch actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of torque transmitting devices and the synchronizer actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of synchronizer assemblies. Selective activation of combinations of the pressure control solenoids and the flow control solenoids allows for a pressurized fluid to activate at least one of the clutch actuators and synchronizer actuators in order to shift the transmission into a desired gear ratio.

In one example of the hydraulic control system, the hydraulic control system includes an electric pump and an accumulator that provide a pressurized hydraulic fluid.

In another example of the hydraulic control system, the hydraulic control system includes one pressure control device and two flow control devices used to actuate the dual clutch.

In yet another example of the hydraulic control system, the hydraulic control system includes one pressure control device and four flow control devices used to actuate the plurality of synchronizer assemblies.

Further features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reference to the following description and appended drawings wherein like reference numbers refer to the same component, element or feature.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary dual clutch transmission having a hydraulic control system according to the principles of the present invention; and

FIGS. 2A-B are a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission according to the principles of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary dual clutch automatic transmission incorporating the present invention is illustrated and generally designated by the reference number 10. At the outset it should be appreciated that the transmission 10 is illustrated schematically in order to generally indicate some of the components of the transmission 10. It should be appreciated that the illustration of the transmission 10 is not intended to be limiting to the configuration shown. The dual clutch transmission 10 includes a typically cast, metal housing 12 which encloses and protects the various components of the transmission 10. The housing 12 includes a variety of apertures, passageways, shoulders and flanges which position and support these components. While the housing 12 is illustrated as a typical rear wheel drive transmission, it should be appreciated that the transmission 10 may be a front wheel drive transmission or a rear wheel drive transmission without departing from the scope of the present invention. The transmission 10 includes an input shaft 14, an output shaft 16, a dual clutch assembly 18, and a gear arrangement 20. The input shaft 14 is connected with a prime mover (not shown) such as an internal combustion gas or Diesel engine or a hybrid power plant. The input shaft 14 receives input torque or power from the prime mover. The output shaft 16 is preferably connected with a final drive unit (not shown) which may include, for example, propshafts, differential assemblies, and drive axles. The input shaft 14 is coupled to and drives the dual clutch assembly 18. The dual clutch assembly 18 preferably includes a pair of selectively engageable torque transmitting devices including a first torque transmitting device 22 and a second torque transmitting device 24. The torque transmitting devices 22, 24 are preferably dry clutches. The torque transmitting devices 22, 24 are mutually exclusively engaged to provide drive torque to the gear arrangement 20.

The gear arrangement 20 includes a plurality of gear sets, indicated generally by reference number 26, and a plurality of shafts, indicated generally by reference number 28. The plurality of gear sets 26 includes individual intermeshing gears that are connected to or selectively connectable to the plurality of shafts 28. The plurality of shafts 28 may include layshafts, countershafts, sleeve and center shafts, reverse or idle shafts, or combinations thereof. It should be appreciated that the specific arrangement and number of the gear sets 26 and the specific arrangement and number of the shafts 28 within the transmission 10 may vary without departing from the scope of the present invention. In the example provided, the transmission 10 provides seven forward gears and a reverse gear.

The gear arrangement 20 further includes a first synchronizer assembly 30A, a second synchronizer assembly 30B, a third synchronizer assembly 30C, and a fourth synchronizer assembly 30D. The synchronizer assemblies 30A-D are operable to selectively couple individual gears within the plurality of gear sets 26 to the plurality of shafts 28. Each synchronizer assembly 30A-D is disposed either adjacent certain single gears or between adjacent pairs of gears within adjacent gear sets 26. Each synchronizer assembly 30A-D, when activated, synchronizes the speed of a gear to that of a shaft and a positive clutch, such as a dog or face clutch. The clutch positively connects or couples the gear to the shaft. The clutch is bi-directionally translated by a shift rail and fork assembly (not shown) within each synchronizer assembly 30A-D. In certain arrangements two single-sided synchronizers can be used in place of a double-sided synchronizer without departing from scope of the invention.

The transmission also includes a transmission control module 32. The transmission control module 32 is preferably an electronic control device having a preprogrammed digital computer or processor, control logic, memory used to store data, and at least one I/O peripheral. The control logic includes a plurality of logic routines for monitoring, manipulating, and generating data. The transmission control module 32 controls the actuation of the dual clutch assembly 18 and the synchronizer assemblies 30A-D via a hydraulic control system 100 according to the principles of the present invention. It should be appreciated that the transmission control module 32 may be integrated into other existing controllers without departing from the scope of the present invention. Turning to FIG. 2, the hydraulic control system 100 of the present invention is operable to selectively engage the dual clutch assembly 18 and the synchronizer assemblies 30A-D by selectively communicating a hydraulic fluid 102 from a sump 104 to a plurality of shift actuating devices, as will be described in greater detail below. The sump 104 is a tank or reservoir to which the hydraulic fluid 104 returns and collects from various components and regions of the automatic transmission 10. The hydraulic fluid 102 is forced from the sump 104 via a pump 106. The pump 106 is preferably driven by an electric engine (not shown) or any other type of prime mover and may be, for example, a gear pump, a vane pump, a gerotor pump, or any other positive displacement pump. The pump 106 includes an inlet port 108 and an outlet port 110. The inlet port 108 communicates with the sump 104 via a suction line 112. The outlet port 110 communicates pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 to a supply line 114. The supply line 114 is in communication with a spring biased blow-off safety valve 116, a pressure side filter 118, and a spring biased check valve 120. The spring biased blow-off safety valve 116 communicates with the sump 104. The spring biased blow-off safety valve 116 is set at a relatively high predetermined pressure and if the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 in the supply line 114 exceeds this pressure, the safety valve 116 opens momentarily to relieve and reduce the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102. The pressure side filter 118 is disposed in parallel with the spring biased check valve 120. If the pressure side filter 118 becomes blocked or partially blocked, pressure within supply line 114 increases and opens the spring biased check valve 120 in order to allow the hydraulic fluid 102 to bypass the pressure side filter 118.

The pressure side filter 118 and the spring biased check valve 120 each communicate with an outlet line 122. The outlet line 122 is in communication with a second check valve 124. The second check valve 124 is in communication with a main supply line 126 and is configured to maintain hydraulic pressure within the main supply line 126. The main supply line 126 supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid to an accumulator 130 and a main pressure sensor 132. The accumulator 130 is an energy storage device in which the non-compressible hydraulic fluid 102 is held under pressure by an external source. In the example provided, the accumulator 130 is a spring type or gas filled type accumulator having a spring or compressible gas that provides a compressive force on the hydraulic fluid 102 within the accumulator 130. However, it should be appreciated that the accumulator 130 may be of other types, such as a gas-charged type, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the accumulator 130 is operable to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 back to the main supply line 126. However, upon discharge of the accumulator 130, the second check valve 124 prevents the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 from returning to the pump 106 when the pressure in line 122 is less than line 126. The accumulator 130, when charged, effectively replaces the pump 106 as the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid 102, thereby eliminating the need for the pump 106 to run continuously. The main pressure sensor 132 reads the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 within the main supply line 126 in real time and provides this data to the transmission control module 32.

The main supply line 126 is channeled through a heat sink 134 used to cool the controller 32, though it should be appreciated that the heat sink 134 may be located elsewhere or removed from the hydraulic control system 100 without departing from the scope of the present invention. The main supply line 126 supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 to two pressure control devices including a first clutch pressure control device 136 and an actuator pressure control device 140.

The first clutch pressure control device 136 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid having an internal closed loop pressure control. Various makes, types, and models of solenoids may be employed with the present invention so long as the first clutch pressure control device 136 is operable to control the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102. The first clutch pressure control device 136 includes an inlet port 136A that communicates with an outlet port 136B when the first clutch pressure control device 136 is activated or energized and includes an exhaust port 136C that communicates with the outlet port 136B when the first clutch pressure control device 136 is inactive or de-energized. Variable activation of the first clutch pressure control device 136 regulates or controls the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 136A to the outlet port 136B. The internal closed loop pressure control provides pressure feedback within the solenoid to adjust the amount of flow to the outlet port 136B based on a particular current command from the controller 32, thereby controlling pressure. The inlet port 136A is in communication with the main supply line 126. The outlet port 136B is in communication with an intermediate line 142. The exhaust port 136C is in communication with the sump 104 or an exhaust backfill circuit (not shown).

The intermediate line 142 communicates the hydraulic fluid 102 from the first clutch pressure control device 136 to a first clutch flow control device 144 and to a first pressure limit control valve 146. The first clutch flow control device 144 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid that is operable to control a flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 from the first clutch flow control device 144 in order to actuate the first torque transmitting device 22, as will be described in greater detail below. The first clutch flow control device 144 includes an inlet port 144A that communicates with an outlet port 144B when the first clutch flow control device 144 is energized to a current greater than the null point current (i.e. the current at the zero forward/reverse flow point) and includes an exhaust port 144C that communicates with the outlet port 144B when the first clutch flow control device 144 is de-energized to a current less than the null point current. Variable activation of the first clutch flow control device 144 regulates or controls the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 144A to the outlet port 144B. The inlet port 144A is in communication with the intermediate line 142. The outlet port 144B is in communication with a first clutch supply line 148 and a flow restriction orifice 150 (which may or may not be present). The exhaust port 144C is in communication with the sump 104. The first pressure limit control valve 146 is disposed in parallel with the first clutch flow control solenoid 144 and is in communication with the first clutch supply line 148. If pressure within the first clutch supply line 148 exceeds a predetermined value above intermediate line 142, the first pressure limit control valve 146 opens to relieve and reduce the pressure. Pressure limit control valve 146 and the corresponding parallel branch may be removed from the circuit if the functionality is not required and therefore does not depart from the scope of the invention.

The first clutch supply line 148 is in fluid communication with an inlet/outlet port 152A in a first clutch piston assembly 152. The first clutch piston assembly 152 includes a single acting piston 154 slidably disposed in a cylinder 156. The piston 154 translates under hydraulic pressure to engage the first torque transmitting device 22, shown in FIG. 1. When the first clutch flow control device 144 is activated or energized, a flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 is provided to the first clutch supply line 148. The flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 is communicated from the first clutch supply line 148 to the first clutch piston assembly 152 where the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 translates the piston 154, thereby engaging the first torque transmitting device 22. When the first clutch flow control solenoid 144 is de-energized, the inlet port 144A is closed and hydraulic fluid from the cylinder 156 passes from the outlet port 144B to the exhaust port 144C and into the sump 104, thereby disengaging the first torque transmitting device 22. The translation of the piston 154 may be measured by a position sensor (not shown) for active control of the first torque transmitting device 22.

The intermediate line 146 also communicates the hydraulic fluid 102 from the clutch pressure control device 136 to a second clutch flow control device 160 and to a second pressure limit control valve 162. The second clutch flow control device 160 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid that is operable to control a flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 from the second clutch flow control device 160 in order to actuate the second torque transmitting device 24, as will be described in greater detail below. The second clutch flow control device 160 includes an inlet port 160A that communicates with an outlet port 160B when the second clutch flow control device 160 is energized to a current greater than the null point current and includes an exhaust port 160C that communicates with the outlet port 160B when the second clutch flow control device 160 is de-energized to a current less than the null point current. Variable activation of the second clutch flow control device 160 regulates or controls the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 160A to the outlet port 160B. The inlet port 160A is in communication with the intermediate line 142. The outlet port 160B is in communication with a second clutch supply line 164 and a flow restriction orifice 166 (which may or may not be present). The exhaust port 160C is in communication with the sump 104 or a backfill circuit. The second pressure limit control valve 162 is disposed in parallel with the second clutch flow control solenoid 160 and is in communication with the second clutch supply line 164. If pressure within the second clutch supply line 164 exceeds a predetermined value above intermediate line 142, the second pressure limit control valve 162 opens to relieve and reduce the pressure. Pressure limit control valve 162 and the corresponding parallel branch may be removed from the circuit if the functionality is not required and therefore does not depart from the scope of the invention.

The second clutch supply line 164 is in fluid communication with an inlet/outlet port 168A in a second clutch piston assembly 168. The second clutch piston assembly 168 includes a single acting piston 170 slidably disposed in a cylinder 172. The piston 170 translates under hydraulic pressure to engage the second torque transmitting device 24, shown in FIG. 1. When the second clutch flow control device 160 is activated or energized, a flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 is provided to the second clutch supply line 166. The flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 is communicated from the second clutch supply line 166 to the second clutch piston assembly 168 where the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 translates the piston 170, thereby engaging the second torque transmitting device 24. When the second clutch flow control solenoid 160 is de-energized, the inlet port 160A is closed and hydraulic fluid from the cylinder 172 passes from the outlet port 160B to the exhaust port 160C and into the sump 104, thereby disengaging the second torque transmitting device 24. The translation of the piston 170 may be measured by a position sensor (not shown) for active control of transmitting device 24.

The actuator pressure control device 140 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid having an internal closed loop pressure control. Various makes, types, and models of solenoids may be employed with the present invention so long as the actuator pressure control device 140 is operable to control the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102. The actuator pressure control device 140 includes an inlet port 140A that communicates with an outlet port 140B when the actuator pressure control device 140 is activated or energized and includes an exhaust port 140C that communicates with the outlet port 140B when the actuator pressure control device 140 is inactive or de-energized. Variable activation of the actuator pressure control device 140 regulates or controls the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 140A to the outlet port 140B. The internal closed loop pressure control provides pressure feedback within the solenoid to adjust the amount of flow to the outlet port 140B based on a particular current command from the controller 32, thereby controlling pressure. The inlet port 140A is in communication with the main supply line 126. The outlet port 140B is in communication with an actuator supply line 180. The exhaust port 140C is in communication with the sump 104 or a backfill circuit.

The actuator supply line 180 communicates pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 from the actuator pressure control device 140 to a plurality of flow control devices and a plurality of shift actuators. For example, the actuator supply line 180 provides a flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 to a first flow control device 182, a second flow control device 184, a third flow control device 186, a fourth flow control device 188, as well as a first synchronizer actuator 190A, a second synchronizer actuator 190B, a third synchronizer actuator 190C, and a fourth synchronizer actuator 190D.

The first flow control device 182 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid. Various makes, types, and models of solenoids may be employed with the present invention so long as the first flow control device 182 is operable to control the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102. The first flow control device 182 includes an inlet port 182A that communicates through an adjustable hydraulic orifice or restriction with an outlet port 182B when the first flow control device 182 is energized to a current greater than the null point current and includes an exhaust port 182C that communicates with the outlet port 182B when the first flow control device 182 is de-energized to a current less than the null point current. Variable activation of the first flow control device 182 regulates or controls the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 182A to the outlet port 182B or from outlet port 182B to exhaust port 182C. The inlet port 182A is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. The outlet port 182B is in communication with a first synchronizer supply line 192. The exhaust port 182C is in communication with the sump 104 or an exhaust backfill circuit.

The second flow control device 184 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid. Various makes, types, and models of solenoids may be employed with the present invention so long as the second flow control device 184 is operable to control the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102. The second flow control device 184 includes an inlet port 184A that communicates through an adjustable hydraulic orifice or restriction with an outlet port 184B when the second flow control device 184 is energized to a current greater than the null point current and includes an exhaust port 184C that communicates with the outlet port 184B when the second flow control device 184 is de-energized to a current less than the null point current. Variable activation of the second flow control device 184 regulates or controls the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 184A to the outlet port 184B or from outlet port 184B to exhaust port 184C. The inlet port 184A is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. The outlet port 184B is in communication with a second synchronizer supply line 194. The exhaust port 184C is in communication with the sump 104 or an exhaust backfill circuit.

The third flow control device 186 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid. Various makes, types, and models of solenoids may be employed with the present invention so long as the third flow control device 186 is operable to control the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102. The third flow control device 186 includes an inlet port 186A that communicates through an adjustable hydraulic orifice or restriction with an outlet port 186B when the third flow control device 186 is energized to a current greater than the null point current and includes an exhaust port 186C that communicates with the outlet port 186B when the third flow control device 186 is de-energized to a current less than the null point current. Variable activation of the third flow control device 186 regulates or controls the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 186A to the outlet port 186B or from outlet port 186B to exhaust port 186C. The inlet port 186A is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. The outlet port 186B is in communication with a third synchronizer supply line 196. The exhaust port 186C is in communication with the sump 104 or an exhaust backfill circuit.

The fourth flow control device 188 is preferably an electrically controlled variable force solenoid. Various makes, types, and models of solenoids may be employed with the present invention so long as the fourth flow control device 188 is operable to control the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102. The fourth flow control device 188 includes an inlet port 188A that communicates through an adjustable hydraulic orifice or restriction with an outlet port 188B when the fourth flow control device 188 is energized to a current greater than the null point current and includes an exhaust port 188C that communicates with the outlet port 188B when the fourth flow control device 188 is de-energized to a current less than the null point current. Variable activation of the fourth flow control device 188 regulates or controls the flow of the hydraulic fluid 102 as the hydraulic fluid 102 communicates from the inlet port 188A to the outlet port 188B or from outlet port 188B to exhaust port 188C. The inlet port 188A is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. The outlet port 188B is in communication with a fourth synchronizer supply line 198. The exhaust port 188C is in communication with the sump 104 or an exhaust backfill circuit.

The synchronizer actuators 190A-D are preferably two-area piston assemblies operable to each engage or actuate a shift rail in a synchronizer assembly, but can be three-area piston assemblies without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the first synchronizer actuator 190A is operable to actuate the first synchronizer assembly 30A, the second synchronizer actuator 190B is operable to actuate the second synchronizer assembly 30B, the third synchronizer actuator 190C is operable to actuate the third synchronizer assembly 30C, and the fourth synchronizer actuator 190D is operable to actuate the fourth synchronizer assembly 30D.

The first synchronizer actuator 190A includes a piston 200A slidably disposed within a piston housing or cylinder 202A. The piston 200A presents two separate areas for pressurized hydraulic fluid to act upon. The piston 200A engages or contacts a finger lever, shift fork, or other shift rail component 203A of the first synchronizer assembly 30A. The first synchronizer actuator 190A includes a fluid port 204A that communicates with a first end 205A of the piston 200A and a fluid port 206A that communicates with an opposite second end 207A of the piston 200A having a smaller contact area than the first end 205A. Fluid port 204A is in communication with the first synchronizer supply line 192 and fluid port 206A is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. Accordingly, the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 communicated from the actuator pressure control device 140 enters the first synchronizer actuator 190A through the fluid port 206A and contacts the second end 207A of the piston 200A and the flow of hydraulic fluid 102 from the first flow control device 182 enters the first synchronizer actuator 190A through the fluid port 204A and contacts the first end 205A of the piston 200A. The difference in the force generated by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 206A from the actuator pressure control device 140 acting on end 207A and the force generated by the pressure of hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 204A from the first flow control device 182 acting on end 205A moves the piston 200A between various positions. Each position in turn corresponds to a position of the shift rail of the first synchronizer assembly 30A (i.e., engaged left, engaged right, and neutral). A fork position sensor 210A may be included to communicate to the controller 32 the position of the shift fork 203A.

The second synchronizer actuator 190B includes a piston 200B slidably disposed within a piston housing or cylinder 202B. The piston 200B presents two separate areas for pressurized hydraulic fluid to act upon. The piston 200B engages or contacts a finger lever, shift fork, or other shift rail component 203B of the second synchronizer assembly 30B. The second synchronizer actuator 190B includes a fluid port 204B that communicates with a first end 205B of the piston 200B and a fluid port 206B that communicates with an opposite second end 207B of the piston 200B having a smaller contact area than the first end 205B. Fluid port 204B is in communication with the second synchronizer supply line 194 and fluid port 206B is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. Accordingly, the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 communicated from the actuator pressure control device 140 enters the second synchronizer actuator 190B through the fluid port 206B and contacts the second end 207B of the piston 200B and the flow of hydraulic fluid 102 from the second flow control device 184 enters the second synchronizer actuator 190B through the fluid port 204B and contacts the first end 205B of the piston 200B. The difference in force generated by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 206B from the actuator pressure control device 140 acting on end 207B and the force generated by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 204B from the second flow control device 184 acting on end 205B moves the piston 200B between various positions. Each position in turn corresponds to a position of the shift rail of the second synchronizer assembly 30B (i.e., engaged left, engaged right, and neutral). A fork position sensor 210B may be included to communicate to the controller 32 the position of the shift fork 203B.

The third synchronizer actuator 190C includes a piston 200C slidably disposed within a piston housing or cylinder 202C. The piston 200C presents two separate areas for pressurized hydraulic fluid to act upon. The piston 200C engages or contacts a finger lever, shift fork, or other shift rail component 203C of the third synchronizer assembly 30C. The third synchronizer actuator 190C includes a fluid port 204C that communicates with a first end 205C of the piston 200C and a fluid port 206C that communicates with an opposite second end 207C of the piston 200C having a smaller contact area than the first end 205C. Fluid port 204C is in communication with the third synchronizer supply line 196 and fluid port 206C is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. Accordingly, the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 communicated from the actuator pressure control device 140 enters the third synchronizer actuator 190C through the fluid port 206C and contacts the second end 207C of the piston 200C and the flow of hydraulic fluid 102 from the third flow control device 186 enters the third synchronizer actuator 190C through the fluid port 204C and contacts the first end 205C of the piston 200C. The difference in the force generated by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 206C from the actuator pressure control device 140 acting on end 207C and the force generated by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 204C from the third flow control device 186 acting on end 205C moves the piston 200C between various positions. Each position in turn corresponds to a position of the shift rail of the third synchronizer assembly 30C (i.e., engaged left, engaged right, and neutral). A fork position sensor 210C may be included to communicate to the controller 32 the position of the shift fork 203C.

The fourth synchronizer actuator 190D includes a piston 200D slidably disposed within a piston housing or cylinder 202D. The piston 200D presents two separate areas for pressurized hydraulic fluid to act upon. The piston 200D engages or contacts a finger lever, shift fork, or other shift rail component 203D of the fourth synchronizer assembly 30D. The fourth synchronizer actuator 190D includes a fluid port 204D that communicates with a first end 205D of the piston 200D and a fluid port 206D that communicates with an opposite second end 207D of the piston 200D having a smaller contact area than the first end 205D. Fluid port 204D is in communication with the fourth synchronizer supply line 198 and fluid port 206D is in communication with the actuator supply line 180. Accordingly, the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 communicated from the actuator pressure control device 140 enters the fourth synchronizer actuator 190D through the fluid port 206D and contacts the second end 207D of the piston 200D and the flow of hydraulic fluid 102 from the fourth flow control device 188 enters the fourth synchronizer actuator 190D through the fluid port 204D and contacts the first end 205D of the piston 200D. The difference in the force generated by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 206D from the actuator pressure control device 140 acting on end 207D and the force generated by the pressure of the hydraulic fluid 102 delivered to fluid port 204D from the fourth flow control device 188 acting on 205D moves the piston 200D between various positions. Each position in turn corresponds to a position of the shift rail of the fourth synchronizer assembly 30D (i.e., engaged left, engaged right, and neutral). A fork position sensor 210D may be included to communicate to the controller 32 the position of the shift fork 203D.

During general operation of the hydraulic control system 100, the accumulator 130 provides the pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 throughout the system and the pump 106 is employed to charge the accumulator 130. Selection of a particular forward or reverse gear ratio is achieved by first selectively actuating one of the synchronizer assemblies 30A-D and then selectively actuating one of the torque transmitting devices 22, 24. It should be appreciated that which actuator assembly 30A-D and which torque transmitting device 22, 24 provide which forward or reverse gear ratio may vary without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Generally, the actuator pressure control device 140 provides pressurized hydraulic fluid 102 to each of the synchronizer actuators 190A-D and each of the flow control devices 182, 184, 186, and 188. Individual synchronizer actuators 190A-D are actuated by controlling a flow from one of the flow control devices 182, 184, 186, and 188 while maintaining a flow from the remaining flow control devices to keep the unengaged synchronizer actuators in a neutral position.

For example, to actuate the first synchronizer assembly 30A, the actuator pressure control device 140 is energized to provide a pressure on the piston 200A and to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the first flow control device 182. Bi-directional translation of the first synchronizer assembly 30A is then achieved by selectively energizing the first flow control device 182. For example, energizing the first flow control device 182 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190A which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205A that is sufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207A from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200A to a first engaged position. After controlling the piston back to neutral typically through closed loop position control, energizing the first flow control device 182 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190A which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205A that is balanced with the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207A from the actuator pressure control device 140 maintains the piston 200A in a neutral or unengaged position. Energizing or de-energizing the first flow control device 182 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190A which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205A that is insufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207A from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200A to a second engaged position.

To actuate the second synchronizer assembly 30B, the actuator pressure control device 140 is energized to provide a pressure on the piston 200B and to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the second flow control device 184. Bi-directional translation of the second synchronizer assembly 30B is then achieved by selectively energizing the second flow control device 182. For example, energizing the second flow control device 184 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190B which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205B that is sufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207B from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200B to a first engaged position. After controlling the piston back to neutral typically through closed loop position control, energizing the second flow control device 184 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190B which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205B that is balanced by the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207B from the actuator pressure control device 140 maintains the piston 200B in a neutral or unengaged position. Energizing or de-energizing the second flow control device 184 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190B which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205B that is insufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207B from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200B to a second engaged position.

To actuate the third synchronizer assembly 30C, the actuator pressure control device 140 is energized to provide a pressure on the piston 200C and to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the third flow control device 186. Bi-directional translation of the third synchronizer assembly 30C is then achieved by selectively energizing the third flow control device 186. For example, energizing the third flow control device 186 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190C which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205C that is sufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207C from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200C to a first engaged position. After controlling the piston back to neutral typically through closed loop position control, energizing the third flow control device 186 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190C which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205C that is balanced by the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207C from the actuator pressure control device 140 maintains the piston 200C in a neutral or unengaged position. Energizing or de-energizing the third flow control device 186 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190C which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205C that is insufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207C from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200C to a second engaged position.

To actuate the fourth synchronizer assembly 30D, the actuator pressure control device 140 is energized to provide a pressure on the piston 200D and to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the fourth flow control device 188. Bi-directional translation of the fourth synchronizer assembly 30D is then achieved by selectively energizing the fourth flow control device 188. For example, energizing the fourth flow control device 188 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190D which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205D that is sufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207D from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200D to a fourth engaged position. After controlling the piston back to neutral typically through closed loop position control, energizing the fourth flow control device 188 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190D which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205D that is balanced by the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207D from the actuator pressure control device 140 maintains the piston 200D in a neutral or unengaged position. Energizing or de-energizing the fourth flow control device 188 to provide a flow of hydraulic fluid 102 to the synchronizer actuator 190D which provides a pressure acting on the piston end 205D that is insufficient to overcome the force generated by the pressure acting on the piston end 207D from the actuator pressure control device 140 moves the piston 200D to a second engaged position.

To engage or actuate the first torque transmitting device 22, the first clutch pressure control device 136 and the first clutch flow control device 144 are energized. To engage or actuate the second torque transmitting device 24, the first clutch pressure control device 136 and the second clutch flow control device 160 are energized. Typically the engagement is monitored and controlled with position sensors (not shown).

In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, the first and second flow control devices 144 and 160 are replaced with first and second pressure control devices (or a combination of flow and pressure control devices). The first and second pressure control devices are preferably electrically controlled variable force solenoids having internal closed loop pressure control. The pressure control solenoids are operable to vary the pressure acting on the clutch actuators 156 and 168 to engage and disengage the clutches 22 and 24.

In yet another alternate embodiment of the present invention, the first, second, third, and fourth flow control devices 182, 184, 186, and 188 are replaced with first, second, third, and fourth pressure control devices (or a combination of flow and pressure control devices). The first, second, third, and fourth pressure control devices are preferably electrically controlled variable force solenoids having internal closed loop pressure control. The pressure control solenoids are operable to vary the pressure acting on the synchronizer actuators 190A-D.

By providing flow control of the clutches 22 and 24 and/or the synchronizer assemblies 30A-D, the hydraulic control system 100 is operable to provide direct clutch position control, direct synchronizer actuator position control, and variable clutch and synchronizer actuator position control. At the same time, quick clutch response times are enabled, spin losses are reduced, and packaging space of the hydraulic control system 100 is reduced, all of which contributes to improved fuel economy and performance. The hydraulic control system 100 is also compatible with BAS/BAS+ hybrid systems. Finally, failure mode protection is enabled through pre-staged position control of the control devices 136, 140, 144, 160, 182, 184, 186, and 188.

The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and variations that do not depart from the general essence of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

1. A hydraulic control system for controlling a dual clutch and a plurality of synchronizers in a transmission, the hydraulic control system comprising: a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a first pressure control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a second pressure control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a first clutch actuator subsystem in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch; a second clutch actuator subsystem in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch; a first synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; a second synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; a third synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; a fourth synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; and a plurality of actuators operable to selectively actuate the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the plurality of actuators are each in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid and wherein each of the plurality of actuators are in downstream fluid communication with a respective one of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids, and wherein each of the plurality of synchronizers is engaged by selectively controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid from the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids to the plurality of actuators.
 2. The hydraulic control system of claim 1 wherein the first pressure control solenoid is configured to control a pressure of hydraulic fluid that is communicated to the first and second clutch actuation subsystems and the second pressure control solenoid is configured to control a pressure of hydraulic fluid that is communicated to each of the plurality of actuators.
 3. The hydraulic control system of claim 1 wherein the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids are operable to control a flow of hydraulic fluid that is communicated from the second pressure control solenoid to the plurality of actuators.
 4. The hydraulic control system of claim 1 wherein the second pressure control solenoid communicates with a first plurality of chambers in each of the plurality of actuators and each of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids communicate with one of a second plurality of chambers in each of the plurality of actuators, wherein each of the first plurality of chambers is disposed on a side of a moveable member opposite the second plurality of chambers, and wherein the moveable members are interconnected to the synchronizers.
 5. The hydraulic control system of claim 1 wherein the second pressure control solenoid includes an input in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid and an output, and wherein each of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer control solenoids include an input in downstream fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid and an output.
 6. The hydraulic control system of claim 5 wherein the plurality of actuators includes a first, a second, a third, and a fourth actuator each having a first input and a second input, wherein the first inputs of the first, second, third, and fourth actuators are in downstream fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid, and wherein the second inputs of the first, second, third, and fourth actuators are each in downstream fluid communication with one of the outputs of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids.
 7. The hydraulic control system of claim 6 wherein the first, second, third, and fourth actuators are two area piston assemblies.
 8. The hydraulic control system of claim 1 wherein the first clutch actuation subsystem includes a first clutch flow control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid and a first clutch actuator in downstream fluid communication with the first clutch flow control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch, and wherein the second clutch actuation subsystem includes a second clutch flow control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid and a second clutch actuator in downstream fluid communication with the second clutch flow control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch.
 9. A hydraulic control system for controlling a dual clutch and a plurality of synchronizers in a transmission, the hydraulic control system comprising: a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a first pressure control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a second pressure control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a first clutch actuator subsystem in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch; a second clutch actuator subsystem in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch; a first synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; a second synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; a third synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; a fourth synchronizer solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid; a first actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the first actuator is in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid and the first synchronizer solenoid, and the first actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the first synchronizer solenoid; a second actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the second actuator is in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid and the second synchronizer solenoid, and the second actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the second synchronizer solenoid; a third actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the third actuator is in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid and the third synchronizer solenoid, and the third actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the third synchronizer solenoid; and a fourth actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the fourth actuator is in downstream fluid communication with the second pressure control solenoid and the fourth synchronizer solenoid, and the fourth actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the fourth synchronizer solenoid.
 10. The hydraulic control system of claim 9 wherein the first pressure control solenoid is configured to control a pressure of hydraulic fluid that is communicated to the first and second clutch actuation subsystems and the second pressure control solenoid is configured to control a pressure of hydraulic fluid that is communicated to each of the first, second, third, and fourth actuators and each of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids.
 11. The hydraulic control system of claim 9 wherein the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids are operable to control a flow of hydraulic fluid that is communicated from the second pressure control solenoid to the first, second, third, and fourth actuators, respectively.
 12. The hydraulic control system of claim 9 wherein the second pressure control solenoid includes an input in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid and an output, and wherein each of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer control solenoids include an input in downstream fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid and an output.
 13. The hydraulic control system of claim 12 wherein the first, second, third, and fourth actuators each include a first input and a second input, wherein the first inputs of the first, second, third, and fourth actuators are in downstream fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid, and wherein the second inputs of the first, second, third, and fourth actuators are each in downstream fluid communication with one of the outputs of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer solenoids, respectively.
 14. The hydraulic control system of claim 13 wherein the first, second, third, and fourth actuators are two area piston assemblies.
 15. The hydraulic control system of claim 9 wherein the first clutch actuation subsystem includes a first clutch flow control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid and a first clutch actuator in downstream fluid communication with the first clutch flow control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch, and wherein the second clutch actuation subsystem includes a second clutch flow control solenoid in downstream fluid communication with the first pressure control solenoid and a second clutch actuator in downstream fluid communication with the second clutch flow control solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch.
 16. The hydraulic control system of claim 9 wherein the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid includes a pump and an accumulator.
 17. A hydraulic control system for controlling a dual clutch and a plurality of synchronizers in a transmission, the hydraulic control system comprising: a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a first pressure control solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a second pressure control solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid; a first clutch solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the output of the first pressure control solenoid; a second clutch solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the output of the first pressure control solenoid; a first clutch actuator in fluid communication with the output of the first clutch solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch; a second clutch actuator in fluid communication with the output of the second clutch solenoid for selectively actuating the dual clutch; a first synchronizer flow control solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid; a second synchronizer flow control solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid; a third synchronizer flow control solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid; a fourth synchronizer flow control solenoid having an input and an output, wherein the input is in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid; a first actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the first actuator includes a first input in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid and a second input in fluid communication with the output of the first synchronizer flow control solenoid, and the first actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the first synchronizer flow control solenoid; a second actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the second actuator includes a first input in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid and a second input in fluid communication with the output of the second synchronizer flow control solenoid, and the second actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the second synchronizer flow control solenoid; a third actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the third actuator includes a first input in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid and a second input in fluid communication with the output of the third synchronizer flow control solenoid, and the third actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the third synchronizer flow control solenoid; and a fourth actuator operable to selectively actuate one of the plurality of synchronizers, wherein the fourth actuator includes a first input in fluid communication with the output of the second pressure control solenoid and a second input in fluid communication with the output of the fourth synchronizer flow control solenoid, and the third actuator is engaged by selectively controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid from the fourth synchronizer flow control solenoid, and wherein selective engagement of one of the dual clutch flow control solenoids and one of the first, second, third, and fourth synchronizer flow control solenoids provides one of seven forward speed ratios and a reverse speed ratio. 